What's Happening?
The Detroit Lions are set to evaluate former Chicago Bears tight end Thomas Gordon during a workout session on Tuesday. Gordon, who played college football at Northwestern, accumulated 54 receptions for 529 yards and two touchdowns over his six-year collegiate
career. Despite going undrafted in 2025, Gordon signed with the UFL's San Antonio Brahmas before being picked up by the Bears in August. However, he was released before the final roster cuts and has yet to play in an NFL game, having only appeared in one UFL contest without recording any stats. The Lions currently have three tight ends on their active roster, including Sam LaPorta, Brock Wright, and Ross Dwelley, with Zach Horton on the practice squad and Shane Zylstra on injured reserve.
Why It's Important?
The workout session for Thomas Gordon highlights the Detroit Lions' ongoing efforts to bolster their tight end options, despite having a relatively stable roster in that position. This move could be strategic, aiming to enhance depth and prepare for potential injuries or performance issues as the season progresses. For Gordon, this opportunity represents a chance to secure a position within an NFL team, potentially starting with a practice squad role. The Lions' decision to host this workout may also reflect broader trends in the league where teams continuously seek to optimize their rosters by exploring available talent, even from players who have not yet made a significant impact in professional games.
What's Next?
If Thomas Gordon impresses during the workout, he may be offered a spot on the Lions' practice squad, providing him with a platform to develop and potentially earn a place on the active roster. The Lions will likely continue to monitor their tight end situation closely, assessing performance and health as the season progresses. This could lead to further roster adjustments or additional workouts for other free agents. The outcome of this workout could also influence Gordon's career trajectory, offering him a chance to prove his capabilities at the professional level.
